KTT Miaowu vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options are the KTT Miaowu and the TTC Neptune, both of which are linear switches. The Miaowu switch from KTT is renowned for its enhanced stem stability and smooth keystroke action, thanks to the utilization of POK in its stem, a feature that sets it apart from switches with conventional POM stems. Categorized as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky', the Miaowu offers a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure, providing a harmonious blend of smooth key travel and springy resistance, akin to chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. With descriptors like 'Buttery', 'Gummy', 'Frictionless', and 'Thocky', the Neptune promises a textured pleasure with every keystroke. While the Miaowu offers stability and a distinctive feel, the Neptune provides a smooth, effortless typing experience with a muted sound signature. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
41g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The KTT Miaowu's housing materials offer a unique combination of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for users wanting a more clear and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This split in housing materials allows users to feel different qualities when pressing down on the switch versus letting go of a key.
In contrast, the TTC Neptune utilizes POM for the top housing and polycarbonate for the bottom housing. The POM top housing creates a pleasing and unique sound profile, leaning towards the deeper and more muted side. This differs from the sharper and crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing of the Miaowu. Additionally, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound profile when compared to the nylon bottom housing of the Miaowu. Despite the differences in housing materials, both keyboards offer a distinct typing experience tailored to the preferences of users.
While the Miaowu and Neptune have varying housing materials for their switches, both keyboards aim to provide a customized typing experience. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both keyboards results in a sharper, clearer sound profile, although the overall sound may differ due to the influence of the bottom housing material. Similarly, the choice of nylon or POM for the bottom housing contributes to the depth and fullness of the sound produced. Whether users prefer a sharper, crisper sound with the Miaowu or a deeper, more muted sound with the Neptune, both keyboards offer a blend of housing materials to cater to diverse typing preferences.
Weight
Both the KTT Miaowu and TTC Neptune linear switches have relatively light actuation forces and bottom out forces, with the Miaowu slightly heavier in terms of actuation force. The Miaowu has an actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Neptune's 41 grams. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in that aspect. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, either of these switches would be suitable due to their lower actuation forces. However, for users who appreciate a bit more resistance and feedback in their typing experience, the slight difference in actuation force between the Miaowu and Neptune may influence their decision in choosing a switch that provides a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to personal preference in typing feel and whether a slightly lighter or heavier touch is desired.
Travel distance
The KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Neptune switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Miaowu switch. In terms of responsiveness, the Miaowu switch may provide a slightly quicker response due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking faster key inputs. On the other hand, the Neptune switch, with its longer travel distance, may offer a more deliberate and substantial keystroke which could be favored by users who prefer a more pronounced typing experience. Overall, both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences for keyboard users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
The TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the KTT Miaowu switch is known for its clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune switch offers a low-pitched and muted sound, creating a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is softer and quieter compared to the Miaowu. The Neptune's sound is described as neutral and subdued, with a thocky quality that adds a deep and satisfying aspect to each keystroke. Both switches provide distinct auditory experiences, with the Miaowu being more crisp and bright, while the Neptune offers a more refined and harmonious sound signature.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Miaowu switch is characterized as bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation that offers a lively rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune switch is known for its buttery and gummy feel, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that feels seamless and effortless. The Neptune also boasts a frictionless and polished feel, providing an extremely smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches deliver unique tactile experiences, with the Miaowu offering a lively bounce and the Neptune providing a luxurious and smooth typing sensation.
Overall, the KTT Miaowu and TTC Neptune switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Miaowu provides a clacky sound and bouncy feel, while the Neptune offers a low-pitched and muted sound with a buttery and gummy feel. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a sharper and more energetic typing experience with the Miaowu or a smoother and more refined feel with the Neptune. Both switches showcase innovative features and superior craftsmanship, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of the choice made.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, you should consider your preferences in terms of typing experience. If you prefer a switch with enhanced stem stability and a smoother keystroke action, along with a lighter tactile feel and a clacky sound profile, then the Miaowu switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with an innovative internal structure that offers a smooth, almost frictionless typing experience, along with a matte feel, muted sound signature, and a variety of unique tactile sensations like buttery, gummy, frictionless, and polished, then the TTC Neptune switch would be the ideal option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your desired typing feel, sound preference, and overall typing experience.
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